Kate Deines

Which player most inspired you and why? My Stjarnan team-mate, Veronica 'V' Perez has been an inspiration to me. I have been fortunate to get to play with her and watch as she accomplishes her professional soccer goals. Now a star for the full Mexican women's national Team, V has proven that hard work, determination, and commitment do pay off.

Which coach most inspired you? My coaching staff at the University of Washington, Lesle Gallimore & Amy Griffin, and Seattle Sounders Women head coach, Michelle French.

What was the best advice they gave you? Coaches Gallimore and Griffin say "Dare to dream" and coach French believes "Attitude is a choice."

Best player you've played with? I've been lucky enough to play with a lot of amazing players over the years at the collegiate, club, and youth national team level. For the Seattle Sounders Women, I got to play with USWNT players Hope Solo, Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe and Sydney Leroux before they left for the London Olympics.

Toughest opponent? University of Portland Pilots – they were our arch-rivals when I played college soccer at UW.

What are your memories of your first club as a child? I remember upsetting the top club team in the final of my first soccer tournament in Washington. At the end of the game, I was awarded the "atomic fireball" by the coach of the opposing team (this was a piece of candy he gave to the player of the match).

What tip would you give a young player hoping to succeed? There are no shortcuts to any place worth going in life. So work hard, have fun, and love every second of the journey.

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